The diversity in cell shapes reflects the different functions of cells.
Compare the cell shapes shown in Figure 4-4. The long extensions
that reach out in various directions from the nerve cell shown in
Figure 4-4a allow the cell to send and receive nerve impulses. The
flat, platelike shape of skin cells in Figure 4-4b suits their function
of covering and protecting the surface of the body. As shown
below, a cell's shape can be simple or complex depending on the
function of the cell. Each cell has a shape that has evolved to allow
the cell to perform its function effectively.